Northern Ventura County
Beach Activities

Surfing Rincon Point

By far the most popular beach activity along the northern coast of Ventura County is surfing, with Rincon Point at the epicenter. Known around the world, the waves at Rincon Point roll in consistently all the way from the river mouth to the highway. The point is best in the winter when the swell comes in from the west or northwest. Swells hit the shallows by the point and break off into evenly spaces waves. Low tides are known to produce the best hollow sections.

Three areas along Rincon Point draw the greatest attention. Most popular is the Cove, which begins part way out the point and then narrows as it approaches shore and waiting rocks. Farther out the point is Rivermouth and beyond that, the Indicator. There are times when all three connect, making for fabulously long rides.

Locals know to avoid the river mouth after heavy rains when sewage is swept down Rincon Creek into the ocean. If the surf is good, expect Rincon to be crowded.

Caution: Check with rangers or lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities.

Rincon Surfing Classic

Every spring the Rincon Surfing Classic is held at Rincon Point. Beginning in January organizers wait for the optimal conditions before announcing the date. In 2013 the competition was held in March, in 2014 and 2015 it took place in January. The 2019 waiting period is from January 19 to March 2. Awards are given in categories ranging from the 11-years-old-and-younger Gremlins up through a Professional Division.
Rincon Surfing Classic

Surfing Down the Coast

La Conchita area is frequented mostly by beginning surfers. The beach break produces moderate waves.

Mussel Shoals is often referred to as Little Rincon because of its point break near the pier. When the swells are right surfers can ride more than a hundred yards.

The area around Hobson Beach draws a fair number of surfers. Some reefs can produce a good break, especially in the winter. The rest of the year it is mostly beginning surfers enjoying moderate waves. To the north offshore is Seacliff Reef, a place where experienced surfers hang out.

Pitas Point and Faria Beach are known for the wildly long break that starts near the campground and rolls all the way to Mondos Beach, a cove south of the point. Many beginning and intermediate surfers gather at Mondos.

Ventura Makos Surf Camp

Surf camps, private lessons, after school program.
(805) 312-0713   Ventura Makos Surf Camp

Mary Osborne Surf Camp

Kids summer surf camps for all ages
Mary Osborne Surf Camp

Picnicking along the Ventura Coast

If you are planning to picnic, bring your blanket and a basket of sandwiches. Picnic tables and BBQs at both Faria and Hobson beach parks are reserved for those with camping spots. The only established picnic area is north across the Santa Barbara County line at Rincon Beach County Park. With a great view, restrooms close at hand, and a beach nearby, Rincon Beach County Park is the best choice.